Though all N173 Old Judge cabinets should be considered scarce, examples featuring John Montgomery Ward are particularly tough to find (PSA has graded just two). Despite being one of the era's most popular players, with nine different poses featured in the N172 issue, examples from the corresponding cabinet issue are seldom seen.  In fact this is the only example we have ever handled, and this pose is the only example we have found in our research.

One of the most popular players of his day, and possibly the most influential player of the 19th Century, Ward led the formation of the first player's union, and also orchestrated the establishment of the Player's League. Originally a pitcher, Ward threw the second perfect game in NL history, but moved to shortstop after throwing his arm out. There, he made himself into a Hall of Famer, twice leading the league in stolen bases and batting .275 over a 17-year career. Ward married actress Helen Dauvray, who donated the game's first Championship trophy, named the Dauvray cup.

The image itself is clear and detailed, with excellent contrast, and the peach-colored Old Judge mount is largely clean. A diagonal crease at the bottom left is reflected in the grade, as is some light soiling on the reverse.  A few areas of minor foxing are visible, at the top right edge of the photo and again at the middle left, neither of which interfere with the image, and a very light surface abrasion can be seen above Ward's left arm, though nothing that detracts from the card's exceptional visual appeal.  Overall an outstanding example of a key Hall of Famer, rare in any grade.